Description

A rare type of dagger from South Kalimantan. Various names circulate, among which beladau lebar which literally means "broad double-edged dagger". Alternatively they are called sadop, or ilan in the Beyaju language or perampuan in Dayak. They were primarily made and used in the southern part of Borneo, mainly Banjarmasin, Barabai, Amuntai and Negara.¹

This example

The blade starts almost as wide as the hilt and then narrows to a point, it has a very mainland Asian shape to it also seen among daggers of the Khmer and India. A pronounced ridge runs in the center, with both facets slightly hollow-ground.

The elegant wooden hilt is waisted and with floral carving at the large pommel. The wooden scabbard is painted black and carved with a stylized flower on the front, and large foliage carved tip at the bottom.

Condition

In original condition, with intact patina. Some minor damage, mainly to the scabbard surface. See photos.

Notes
1. Albert G. van Zonneveld; Traditionele wapens van Borneo, de uitrusting van de koppensnellers. Deel III, zwaarden en messen. Sunfield Publishing, 2021. Pages 205-207 and 242-243.